Hip dysplasia is the most heritable common orthopedic condition in dogs. Systematic breeding schemes using radiographic hip scoring significantly reduce incidence over generations.
Hip dysplasia causes significant chronic welfare suffering in affected dogs from puppyhood through to old age. The heritable nature of the condition means responsible breeding decisions can reduce the number of future dogs born to a life of joint pain. Voluntary health testing schemes have been available for decades but uptake remains incomplete as not all breeders participate. The welfare case for testing and only breeding from hip-scored individuals is compelling: preventing the birth of dogs predisposed to painful hip disease represents one of the most significant welfare contributions available to breeders. Supporting only breeders who participate in appropriate health testing rewards responsible practice.